The HER Foundation is thrilled to have the groundbreaking research on hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) and pregnancy sickness shortlisted for the Falling Walls Science Breakthrough of the Year 2024 title in…
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Are you as excited as we are about the international Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) conference being in the United States for the first time? ICHG 2024 happens every other year, and…
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Dr. Marlena Fejzo, HER Foundation’s Research Director, Harmonia Healthcare’s Chief Scientific Officer, and an Assistant Professor at USC has been honored as one of Forbes 50 over 50: Innovation! Discover…
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National Geographic mentioned the HER Foundation and its board members, Kimber MacGibbon, RN, Dr. Marlena Fejzo, and Dr. Aimee Brecht-Doscher, in their article, “We finally know the cause of severe…
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A new study published in Nature reveals abnormally high levels of the hormone GDF15, and increased sensitivity to it, are the major factors contributing to HG. The most severe form…
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Be a part of finding answers about Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG). Currently, the HER Foundation has three active research surveys. Please participate!
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Using genetics, the HER Foundation, led by Marlena Fejzo, PhD., found the cause of HG is related to the nausea and vomiting hormone GDF15. Our newest study is pending publication and was featured in New Scientist.
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Her doctor said her illness was all in her head. Dr. Fejzo was determined to find the truth. And she did: HG’s most likely genetic cause is GDF15. Read her story in The New York Times.
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Overall, this study contributes to our understanding of the biology of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy and may lead to future research evaluating new treatment avenues. Of note, drugs targeting the GDF15 pathway have shown great promise in mitigating weight loss, loss of appetite, and vomiting in animal models and are currently in clinical trials in cancer cachexia, a disease with similar symptoms to HG.
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Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) is not self-limiting, and its impact can last a lifetime for mothers and their children. Until there is recognition of this fact and comprehensive, universal, effective treatment for all HG patients, every level of society will continue to face the costs of HG.
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